According to reports, Malabanan had just come from a cockpit arena in Malvar town and was on his way home aboard his Mitsubishi Adventure (WDL-721) when he was waylaid along the highway in Barangay Darasa around 7:30 p.m.

Malabanan died on the spot after sustaining bullet wounds in his head.

Police have yet to determine the motive behind the killing. They are now pursuing the suspects who managed to escape.